How Much Does it Cost to Study Abroad in New Zealand in 2025?
Ready to study abroad in New Zealand? Here's what you need to know about the cost of studying abroad in New Zealand, from tuition to the cost of living.
There are a plethora of reasons to consider studying in New Zealand. From climbing Mount Doom, embracing Māori culture, to navigating the fiord of Milford Sound, this remote island nation offers excellent education and a high quality of life. However, as a highly developed island nation, costs are a natural concern for international students.
From tuition fees, cost of living, and money-saving tips for students, read on to find out how much it costs to study abroad in New Zealand in 2025!
Why study abroad in New Zealand?
New Zealand offers an inclusive environment where international students thrive both academically and personally. It’s more than just a beautiful place — it’s a chance to learn in a country that values community, sustainability, and connection.
Top reasons to study abroad in New Zealand as an international student:
- High-quality universities: New Zealand is home to world class institutions, with the University of Auckland being among the top 100 universities globally.
- Stunning landscapes: Nature lovers will find peace and exhilaration in New Zealand. From active volcanoes to pristine lakes and thriving biodiversity, there are no shortage of options when it comes to nature therapy.
- High quality of life: New Zealand consistently ranks among the top countries when it comes to quality of life and safety. The country’s standard of education, healthcare, work-life balance, and inclusivity are strong indicators of its strong life quality.
- Diversity: With a society that celebrates Māori heritage and a growing multicultural population, New Zealand’s diversity means that it is not only welcoming to foreigners but a melting pot of cultures.
Average tuition cost for a semester abroad in New Zealand
You’ll need to consider a variety of costs, with tuition fees bearing the bulk. Here are the average tuition costs per semester for international students studying in New Zealand:
- Direct enrolment: The average tuition fee for studying in New Zealand as an international student ranges from $6,500-$15,000 USD per semester. Direct enrolment is the cheapest way to study abroad, cutting out any agency or middle-man fees, but it will require more effort on your part.
- Third-party provider: Studying in New Zealand through a third-party provider will cost between $15,000-$25,000 USD per semester. Third-party providers often provide pre-departure support, accommodation, and an in-country orientation as a part of the program fee.
- Faculty-led exchange program: Your university may have a partner institution in New Zealand, allowing you to study abroad for a semester or a year. With faculty-led exchange programs, you don’t need to pay any tuition fees in addition to your current university tuition fees.
Average monthly cost of living in New Zealand
From the essentials to small delights, you'll need to consider different aspects of living costs while studying abroad in New Zealand.
| Expense | Estimated cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent inside city center |
$1,083 |
| Rent outside city center |
$910 |
| Transportation pass |
$105 |
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $14.00 |
| Cup of coffee | $3.30 |
| Cell phone plan | $34 |
| Gym membership | $36 |
Source: Numbeo
Other costs to consider
It’s always best to overestimate study abroad expenses to ensure your budget properly. Aside from tuition fees and basic living costs, there are other costs that you’ll need to consider.
- Student visa: You’ll need to pay for a student visa, which costs around $450 USD and covers a length of stay of up to 4 years (depending on your program).
- Airfare: It can be expensive getting to a remote island nation like New Zealand. If you’re from the US, it’s cheaper to depart from the West Coast. One-way tickets to Wellington cost around $550 USD from Los Angeles, whereas it can range from $600-$1000 USD from New York. From major European cities, tickets will cost around $800 USD.
- Health insurance: Unfortunately, injury, sickness, or issues can strike wherever and whenever. Students entering New Zealand must declare that they will obtain health insurance, and while you should anticipate a blissful study abroad experience, it’s important to prepare for unforeseen circumstances by getting travel insurance while abroad.
- Travel: From vibrant spots in Auckland to the Bay of Islands, you’ll want to travel when you’re not studying in the classroom. Anticipate fees such as accommodation, car rentals, ferry, train, or domestic flight tickets during your study abroad.
Money-saving tips for studying in New Zealand
Although you need to account for relatively high living costs, there are many ways you can stretch your budget while studying in New Zealand.
- Create a budget & track of expenses: Although it won’t do the work for you, creating a spreadsheet or using spending a tracker app can help you become more mindful of your spending habits.
- Find part-time work: Student visa holders in New Zealand can work for up to 20 hours per week or full-time hours during the holidays. Consider picking up a part-time job to use as spending money or cover basic living expenses.
- Consider modest & shared accommodation: As a student, you’ll spend much of your time out of the house, whether studying on-campus or socializing in cafes and bars. Don’t go beyond your means when it comes to student accommodation, and consider shared housing which isn’t only cost-effective but a great way to make friends!
- Explore student discounts: There are various ways you can make use of student discounts in New Zealand. Consider applying for an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) with reputable platforms like UNiDAYSor StudentBeans. These cards offer savings on travel, technology items, entertainment, and other services.
- Collect points with membership cards: Playing the long game can pay dividends! Loyalty cards with big stores such as Woolworths and Foodstuffs can go a long way as a student.
- Cook at home: Eating out here and there can add up over the course of a semester. Shopping at local markets and cooking at home allows you to save money for other things such as traveling.
- Use an international bank card: Consider applying for an international bank card, which can minimize transaction and ATM withdrawal fees while studying abroad.
- Plan free activities: With an abundance of beaches, mountains, and free museums, there are plenty of things to do in New Zealand that don't require opening your wallet. Many universities in New Zealand offer free access to facilities such as gyms, social clubs and events to enhance campus life.
Scholarships for studying in New Zealand
Regardless of whether you apply through direct enrollment or with a program provider, you can apply for scholarships and grants to minimize your expenses. Many students are unaware of study abroad scholarship opportunities, despite how much they can enrich your experience. The best part, you don’t need to pay these back if you win!
Start planning your study abroad adventure in New Zealand!
While cost is certainly an important factor, remember to make sure to not let finances completely dictate your decision of where you'll study abroad. While studying abroad in New Zealand isn’t exactly cheap, it can provide an academically and life enriching experience. Any study abroad program you choose will require you to spend money, so it’s important to select the right program for your academic preferences and travel wishes, not just which location suits your wallet the best.
Read more about studying abroad in New Zealand:
